Sometimes you have to change a flight time whether you like it or not, but most major airlines charge around $200 a ticket for changes. If you think ahead or can act fast enough, you might be able to avoid the extra charge.

Rick Seaney at FareCompare.com has a couple tips on how you can maneuver you way around pesky flight change fees:

Buy refundable tickets: If you aren't completely certain about the date and time, refundable tickets may be your best option. Be careful, refundable tickets can cost more, though, so check to make sure it's worth it.

Remember the 24-hour rule: The Department of Transportation requires airlines to give you 24 hours after reservation or purchase to change with no fee.

Look into travel insurance: If you fly regularly, check travel insurance plans and find one that will cover flight change fees.

Be sure to consider the airline you fly with too. American Airline's lets you reserve a seat without charging your card until 24 hours after the reservation is made, and Southwest is the only U.S. airline that doesn't charge flight change fees. There are numerous fees that can go along with flying, but researching ahead of time is always the best way to avoid them.